Figure 34
The rip fence (A, Fig. 34) should be set for the width of the cut by using the scale on the front rail, or by measuring the distance between blade (A) and fence (B). Stand out of line with saw blade and workpiece to avoid sawdust and splinters coming off the blade or a potential kickback.
If the work piece does not have a straight edge, nail an auxiliary straight edged board on it to provide one against the fence. To cut properly, the board must make good contact with the table. If it is slightly warped, turn the hollow side down. Do not attempt to cut boards with significant warp.
In ripping, use one hand to hold the board down against the fence or fixture, and the other to push it into the blade between blade and fence. If workpiece is narrower than 6" or shorter than 12", use a push stick or push block to push it through between fence and blade (Figure 35). Never push in a location such that the pushing hand is in line with the blade. Move the hand serving as a hold- down a safe distance from blade as cut nears completion.
For very narrow ripping where a push stick cannot be used, use a push block or auxiliary fence. Always push the workpiece completely past the blade at the end of a cut to minimize the possibility of a kickback.
Figure 35
Figure 36
When ripping long boards, use a support at front of table (C, Figure 36), such as a roller stand, and a support or "tailman" at the rear (D).
Never use the rip fence beyond the point where the carriage is flush with the end of the rails.
Have the blade extend about 1/8" above the top of the workpiece. Exposing the blade above this point can be hazardous.
11.4Resawing
Resawing is a ripping operation in which thick boards are cut into thinner ones. Note: A band saw is the ideal tool for resawing.
If the table saw is used for resawing, take precautions such as using an auxiliary fence, resaw barrier or similar devices to stabilize the workpiece and provide operator safety.
Narrow boards up to 3" can be resawn in one pass. Wider boards up to 6" must be resawn in two passes.
In resawing wider boards, adjust the blade height so as to overlap the two cuts by 1/2" as shown in Figure 37. Too deep a first cut can result in binding and possible kickbacks on the second cut. Always use the same side of the board against the fence for both cuts.
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